Experience the natural beauty and unique history of the Shubenacadie Canal Waterway! Stretching across Nova Scotia from the Halifax Harbour to the Bay of Fundy, site of the world’s highest tides, this 114-kilometre waterway offers diverse recreational opportunities, interpretation, parks, and canal locks built in the 1800s.
What is today known as the Shubenacadie Canal, this route was historically used by the Mi’kmaq people as the travel between their summer camps along the shores of Halifax and Dartmouth and their winter camps inland and near the Bay of Fundy’s Cobequid Bay, over 4,000 years ago. The name Shubenacadie comes from the Mi’kmaw word Sipekne’katik (sih-PEH-kuh-NAH-tick) which meant “where the groundnuts (wild potato or wild turnip) grow” which was an important food source for Mi’kmaw people living in this area.
Attraction Highlights Paddle, walk, or cycle the historic canal at Shubie Park, which features a series of well-maintained trails and numerous interpretive panels. Just outside downtown Dartmouth and Dartmouth Crossing, Shubie Park is a great way to connect with nature in the heart of the city. At the Bay of Fundy end of the waterway, feel the thrill of tidal bore rafting and mud-sliding along the Shubenacadie River.
Stroll Canal Walk 1 and 2 in downtown Dartmouth to discover the Flume House, Sullivan’s Pond and Lake Banook
Visit historic Shubie Park with its interpretive centre and walking trails, featuring Lock 2, Lock 3, and the Canal Deep Cut
Take a tidal bore rafting tour on Shubenacadie River
Go swimming or have a picnic in the shade at Graham’s Grove Park on Lake Banook
Launch your boat on Grand Lake at the fully restored Lock 5 in Wellington
Enjoy beautiful Lock 6 Park, trail and boardwalk in Enfield
Fairbanks Centre Hours of Operation
April 1 to October 31: Monday to Saturday, 9:00am-4:00pm
November 1 to March 31: Monday to Friday, 9:00am-2:00pm
Please note: Walking trails see limited winter maintenance.
